What is MAEF?
The Meyersdale Area Education Foundation (MAEF) is a 501(c)3 organization that was established in the spring of 2010 in conjunction with the Community Foundation for the Alleghenies. Its original purpose was to provide funding for scholarships to our graduating students. About a year later, a board of trustees worked together to expand MAEF to include other areas of interests in which ALL students would benefit, not just graduating seniors. Today, MAEF has seven different programs that donors can select to contribute.
What programs does MAEF support?
MAEF is dedicated to providing supporting for all aspects of education within the Meyersdale Area School District. Therefore, the following programs were developed to encompass the many different facets that contribute to the education at Meyersdale Area School District: K-12 Scholarships, Academics, The Arts, Athletics, Special Projects, Community Involvement, and Building & Grounds. To learn more about these individual programs, refer to the MAEF Programs link.
Is MAEF eligible for EITC contributions?
Yes! Through our affiliation with the Community Foundation for the Alleghenies, MAEF is approved by the Department of Community and Economic Development to receive contributions from the Educational Improvement Tax Credit program. Eligible businesses can make up to a two-year commitment and receive a 90% tax credit on their contribution. To learn more about the EITC program, refer to the link on the left.
Can I specify the program I wish to support?
Absolutely! We encourage donors to specify specific programs when making a contribution. While it is important that all programs supported by MAEF receive funding, we understand that donors have specific interests whether they are related strictly to academics or extracurricular activties. When making your donation, simply indicate on the form which program you wish to support and those funds will be specifically earmarked for that program.
How is MAEF governed?
MAEF is operated by a Board of Trustees that is comprised of members from the local community. Trustees meet periodically throughout the school year to review applications for financial support from students, teachers, and school organizations. The Board of Trustees is the decision-making entity and is not associated with the school board. To learn more about the MAEF Trustees refer to the link on the left.
What should I donate to MAEF?
MAEF supports the education and the future of the students in our local communities. In a time where funding for education is quickly dissipating, many school districts are forced to cut programs and reduce faculty in order to meet budgets. MAEF helps to keep those programs in place by providing funding that is otherwise unavailable. We understand the importance of all facets of public education on a child's life. Therefore, we support programs that occur both inside and outside the classroom. By making a contribution to MAEF, you are helping to ensure that children receive a quality and well-rounded education that includes academics, arts, athletics, and other extracurricular activities. It is these programs that make a public education the best education for students in Somerset County.
How do I make a donation?
Making a donation is easy! To make a one-time donation, you can complete the donation form and mail it to our office or to establish a trust fund to benefit the Meyersdale Area School District, please contact Chloe Thomas, Human Resources Manager, at 814-634-5123 ext. 329 or email [email protected].